long lasting trauma

Overview

Long-lasting trauma (also called post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD) is a mental health condition that can happen after you go through or see something deeply upsetting. It can cause fear, sadness, or anxiety that does not fade with time and can make everyday life feel very hard.

Yes. Trauma is very common, and many people who experience a traumatic event go on to have some long-lasting symptoms. It is one of the most common mental health concerns worldwide.

Long-lasting trauma can affect anyone — from young children to older adults. People with a history of mental illness, a lack of support, or repeated traumatic experiences may be more likely to develop it.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Flashbacks — feeling like you are reliving the terrifying event.
• Nightmares or trouble sleeping.
• Avoiding places, people, or situations that remind you of the trauma.
• Feeling constantly on edge, irritable, or easily startled.
• Negative thoughts about yourself or the world.
• Feeling emotionally numb or detached from others.
• Trouble concentrating or remembering things.

Symptoms in children

• Wetting the bed after being toilet-trained.
• Being extremely clingy or afraid of separation.
• Acting out the trauma during play or drawing.
• Having trouble concentrating in school.
• Showing new fears or aggression.

Symptoms in older adults

• Increased physical symptoms like headaches or stomach aches.
• Becoming more withdrawn or isolated.
• Memory problems or confusion.
• Worsening of existing health conditions.
• Feelings of guilt or hopelessness about the past.

Causes

Main causes

• Experiencing a serious accident, physical attack, or sexual assault.
• Serving in combat or being in a war zone.
• Witnessing violence or the death of another person.
• Surviving a natural disaster, such as an earthquake or fire.
• Going through repeated abuse, neglect, or bullying over a long time.

Risk factors

• Having little or no support from family or friends after the event.
• Having a history of anxiety, depression, or other mental health conditions.
• Experiencing trauma earlier in life, especially in childhood.
• Ongoing stress, such as money problems or a difficult home situation.
• Being female — some studies suggest women are more likely to develop PTSD, but it affects all genders.

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you are having thoughts of suicide or self-harm, seek help right away. Call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency room.
• If you are worried that you might hurt yourself or someone else, do not wait.

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you have symptoms that last for more than a few weeks.
• If the symptoms are getting worse or affecting your work, school, or relationships.
• If you are using alcohol, drugs, or food to cope.

Diagnosis

A doctor or mental health professional will ask you about what you have been through, how you have been feeling, and how these feelings are affecting your life. They may also do a physical exam to make sure there is no other medical cause.

Tests that may be done

• There is no blood test or scan for long-lasting trauma.
• You may be asked to fill out a questionnaire about your symptoms and experiences.
• A healthcare provider may want to rule out other conditions like depression or anxiety.

What to expect at your appointment

Your first appointment is a conversation. You do not have to share every detail of what happened. The provider will work with you to understand your symptoms and suggest a plan that feels right for you. A diagnosis can take one or more sessions.

Treatment

There are very effective treatments for long-lasting trauma. The two main types are talking therapies and, for some people, medication. Treatment helps you make sense of what happened, calm your nervous system, and take back control of your life.

Self-care at home

• Try to keep a regular daily routine and get enough sleep.
• Do gentle physical activity like walking or stretching.
• Avoid alcohol, tobacco, and non-prescribed drugs, as they can make symptoms worse.
• Lean on people you trust and tell them what you need.
• Use grounding techniques, like naming five things you can see or touch, to help during difficult moments.

Medical treatments

Therapy is usually the first treatment offered. Trauma-focused cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and another type called EMDR (eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing) are proven approaches. Some people may also benefit from medication to help with depression or sleep, but any medication should be prescribed and monitored by a qualified doctor. Always talk to your healthcare provider about your options.

When is surgery considered?

Not applicable.

Living with this condition

Living with long-lasting trauma is a journey. Some days will be harder than others. Be gentle with yourself and take things one day at a time. Learn to notice your early warning signs and have a plan for stressful moments.

Lifestyle tips

• Set small, achievable goals each day.
• Create a safe and calming home environment.
• Limit exposure to news or social media that makes you feel anxious.
• Stay connected with people who make you feel safe.
• Try relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation.

Diet and exercise

Eating regular, balanced meals can help stabilise your mood. Gentle exercise like walking, swimming, or yoga has been shown to reduce anxiety and improve sleep. Avoid too much caffeine and alcohol, as they can trigger nervousness.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

It is common to feel depressed, angry, or ashamed. You might also develop other problems like panic attacks or difficulty trusting people. These are all part of the condition, but they can be treated. A mental health professional can help you manage these feelings.

Prevention

You cannot always prevent traumatic events from happening. However, after a traumatic experience, getting practical and emotional support quickly can reduce the chance of symptoms becoming long-lasting. Feeling safe, being around caring people, and addressing stress early all help.

Complications

If left untreated

• Chronic depression or severe anxiety.
• Problems in relationships and social isolation.
• Loss of interest in work or hobbies.
• Increased risk of alcohol and drug misuse.
• Physical health problems like heart disease, chronic pain, or digestive issues.

Long-term outlook

Recovery is absolutely possible. With the right treatment and support, many people learn to manage their symptoms and reclaim their lives. Some people find meaning in their experiences and grow stronger. The earlier you reach out, the better the chance of a good outcome. You deserve help, and help exists.

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